Decal curling after setting, what can be done about it.

Tools, Techniques, and Reference Materials Decaling
1

It was another one of those days…

I just ran into a big problem with decals from Trumpeter kit for the 1:350 scale Sovermeny destroyer. I was applying the decal that goes for the helicopter landing pad at the rear of the ship.

Seeing that the decal was cracking I applied Micro Suprerfilm over the decal before I dipped it in water to ensure that it does not crack any further.

When the coating was dry,(about 1/2 hour later) I dipped the decal in water and quckly applied som MicroSet solution on the helicopter pad where the decla would go.

I slipped the decal in place and as per instructions, applied a little bit more over the decal to help adhesion. The decal kept lifting on sides and corners, so I applied a little more solution and held the decal down with my brush.

After a few minutes it looked like it would stick, so I left it to dry.

After about 1 1/2 hours later I returned to find that the whole decal lifted and curled into a scroll. There were holes in some areas, but the decal was completely dry…(more like crispy dry).

Question 1

Can this decal still be saved as it is impossible to get an aftermarket one for this area of the ship. What would be the best technique in the future.?

Question 2

Since it is white, I may try and make a negative using a compass and drawing lines on decal film or tape and then attach it to the helicopter pad and airbrush white paint. But that seems very difficult for me. It almost feels like I should get another kit for the decal, but that is expensive. Any suggestions.

2

I’m not familiar with the Superfilm, is it possible that too much was used?

I think the “make it yourself” option is probably the best (but not the easiest!) way to go. I guess the other option, if you’re able to, is to design your own decal using Photoshop & blank decal sheets.

3

The only problem is that if i design my own and try and print it… the decal is white, printers don’t print white. You would need a special printer for that that is very expensive.

4

Yes they are expen$ive! I’d say your masking & painting unless someone else has a different option.

5

You can buy white decal paper from the same places that sell the clear. Make the decal the size of the entire pad. Design it to print the grey/blue color. The result will be just what you want- the areas not printed on will end up white.